Learjet 45 vs Cessna Citation XLS
The Cessna Citation XLS and Learjet 45 are popular light/midsize jets often cross-shopped. The single-pilot-capable XLS offers a wider, taller stand-up midsize-cabin interior with easy handling, while the swept-wing, TFE731-powered Learjet 45 is a fast two-crew light jet with strong high-altitude cruise and a sleeker profile.
Full Specs Comparison
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| Spec / Model | Learjet 45 | Cessna Citation XLS |
|---|---|---|
|
|
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| Price Range | $1,495,000 – $12,000,000 | $1,795,000 – $15,295,000 |
| Category | Light Jet | Midsize Jet |
| Model Specifications | ||
| Seats | 9 | 9 |
| Cruise Speed | 438 kts (811 km/h) | 433 kts (802 km/h) |
| Range | 2,120 nm (3,926 km) | 1,796 nm (3,326 km) |
| Service Ceiling | 51,000 ft (15,545 m) | 45,000 ft (13,716 m) |
| Max Gross Weight | 21,500 lbs (9,752 kg) | 20,200 lbs (9,163 kg) |
| Useful Load | 5,200 lbs (2,359 kg) | — |
| Fuel Capacity | 575.0 gal (2176 L) | — |
| Fuel Burn | 170.0 GPH (643 L/h) | 185.0 GPH (700 L/h) |
| TBO | 5,000 hrs | 4,500 hrs |
| Overhaul Cost | $400,000 | $400,000 |
| Annual Fixed | $350,000 | $350,000 |
| Hourly Variable | $2,500 | $2,400 |
| Engines | 2 x Turbofan | 2 x Turbofan |
Cost of Ownership
EstimateLearjet 45
Fuel$935/hr
Variable$2,500/hr
Annual Fixed$350,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr)
$850,000/yr
Cessna Citation XLS
Fuel$1,018/hr
Variable$2,400/hr
Annual Fixed$350,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr)
$830,000/yr
Which Should You Buy: Learjet 45 or Cessna Citation XLS?
Bottom line: Choose the XLS for a larger stand-up cabin, single-pilot capability, and broad Citation support; pick the Learjet 45 for swept-wing speed and a classic jet feel. Cabin size, crew requirements, and operating costs typically decide this pairing.
Pick the 45 if…
- Budget matters — from $1,495,000 vs $1,795,000, you save ~$300,000.
- Faster cruise — 438 kts vs 433 kts.
- Longer range — 2120 nm vs 1796 nm.
- More inventory — 60 listings vs 27.
Pick the Citation XLS if…
- Lower operating cost — ~$2400/hr vs $2500/hr.
- Newer design — production from 2003 vs 1997.
Auto-generated from current market data and published specs. Confirm with a pre-buy inspection and professional appraisal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Learjet 45 or Cessna Citation XLS?
It depends on your mission and budget.
The 45 cruises at 438 kts with 2,120 nm range.
The Citation XLS cruises at 433 kts with 1,796 nm range.
Review the specs table above to find which fits your flying profile.
How do prices compare?
Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between Learjet 45 and Cessna Citation XLS?
45 engine: Garrett TFE731-20-AR.
Cruise: 438 vs 433 kts.
Range: 2120 vs 1796 nm.
Which is cheaper to operate per hour?
45: about $2500/hr variable cost.
Citation XLS: about $2400/hr variable cost.
Variable cost includes fuel, reserves and overhaul accruals. Annual fixed costs (hangar, insurance, annual inspection) add to the total.
Which has more seats and useful load?
45: 9 seats / 5,200 lb useful load.
Citation XLS: 9 seats.
Useful load = max gross weight minus empty weight; it determines how much fuel plus payload you can carry.
How does maintenance compare — TBO and overhaul cost?
45: 5,000-hour TBO, overhaul ~$400,000.
Citation XLS: 4,500-hour TBO, overhaul ~$400,000.
Reaching the time-between-overhaul (TBO) triggers a mandatory engine/airframe rebuild that affects resale value.
Disclaimer: All prices and cost estimates are from third-party sources for informational purposes only. Always obtain professional appraisal and inspection before purchase.
Prices updated daily · Data: FAA Registry, NTSB · About our data